MELAKA — Barisan Nasional in Melaka will adopt a balanced candidate strategy for the upcoming state election, combining fresh faces with seasoned to strengthen its lineup.

State BN chairman Ab Rauf Yusoh said the approach is intended to provide opportunities for younger leaders while ensuring continuity in governance through experienced representatives, as reported by Bernama.

He noted that during his tenure as chairman of the state UMNO liaison body, more than 86 per cent of candidates fielded in the previous Melaka state election were new faces, reflecting the coalition’s commitment to leadership renewal.

“We must be fair to the future generation. We need to build this state together so it becomes a legacy for future leadership,” he told reporters after attending the state legislative assembly sitting at the Seri Negeri Complex.

The fifth session of the 15th Melaka State Legislative Assembly is scheduled to conclude in December, which is expected to pave the way for state elections later this year.

Commenting on PAS plans to contest 16 out of 28 seats, Ab Rauf said the decision rests with the party, describing the as an open contest.

He added that UMNO and BN will continue to defend the seats they previously won in the state.